Category: Interrail Journeys

Articles, photos, and tips from my Interrail journeys across Europe, exploring multiple countries by train.

  • 🍹 Bar, Montenegro 🇲🇪: Have You Been to a Bar in Bar?

    🍹 Bar, Montenegro 🇲🇪: Have You Been to a Bar in Bar?

    Montenegro’s coastal gem, Bar, isn’t just a city with a funny name. Sure, it’s fun to say you’ve been to a bar in Bar 🍻 — but this Adriatic port has so much more to offer. From its role as Montenegro’s main seaport to its layers of culture and history, Bar is where the sea meets the mountains, and tradition meets modern life.


    ⚓ The Port of Bar: Gateway to the Adriatic

    Bar is Montenegro’s most important port, connecting the country with Italy and beyond. Ships, ferries, and yachts line the marina, making the city an economic hub as well as a travel gateway. Walking along the harbor, you’ll see a mix of trade, tourism, and fishing culture that reflects Montenegro’s maritime soul.

    The bustling Port of Bar – Montenegro’s connection to the world.


    🏛️ A City of History and Culture

    Bar’s story stretches across centuries. In Stari Bar (Old Bar), ruins from Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times tell tales of resilience and transformation. Meanwhile, modern Bar is wide, organized, and full of life, offering an interesting contrast to Montenegro’s medieval towns like Kotor or Budva.

    The grand Cathedral of St. John Vladimir, blending faith and national pride.

    Step inside and look up: walls and ceilings covered in vibrant frescoes that feel alive.


    🌿 Olive Trees, Beaches, and Local Flavors

    Bar is home to one of the oldest olive trees in the world — more than 2,000 years old. The surrounding land produces olives, citrus fruits, and wine, giving Bar its Mediterranean taste. And if you love the sea, Bar’s beaches offer a peaceful alternative to Montenegro’s busier coastal cities.

    The calm Adriatic shoreline near Bar, perfect for a quiet escape.

    And yes — don’t forget to actually have a drink in Bar 🍺. Montenegro’s famous Nikšićko beer is a perfect start!

    Cheers! You can officially say: I had a beer in Bar.


    ✨ My Impressions

    Bar may not be as polished as Budva or as famous as Kotor, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s authentic, down-to-earth, and full of contrasts: ancient ruins and modern boulevards, sacred frescoes and industrial port cranes, calm beaches and lively cafés.

    Visiting Bar made me smile — not just for the pun, but for the feeling that I had discovered one of Montenegro’s most genuine cities. And yes, now I can say it proudly: I’ve been to a bar in Bar. 🍹

  • Mostar 🇧🇦: The Timeless Bridge Between Cultures🌉

    Mostar 🇧🇦: The Timeless Bridge Between Cultures🌉

    Mostar, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most enchanting cities, is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and its role as a cultural crossroads. Nestled in the heart of Herzegovina, Mostar offers visitors a blend of Ottoman charm, Austro-Hungarian influence, and a spirit of resilience that continues to inspire.


    🌙 Nighttime Magic

    By night, Mostar transforms into a fairytale. The cobblestone streets light up with cozy cafés and restaurants, while the Neretva River reflects the glow of the moon and the illuminated Old Bridge. It’s a perfect place for evening walks and stargazing over the valley.

    Charming cafés and restaurants in the Old Town under the night sky.

    Picturesque bridges and stone houses reflecting Ottoman heritage.

    The Neretva River shining under the moonlight.

    Stari Most glowing under the moon, a symbol of unity and endurance.


    🏙️ Daytime Vibes

    During the day, the Old Bazaar comes alive with copperware, souvenirs, and the aroma of Bosnian coffee. The lively streets remind visitors of the city’s role as a meeting place of cultures for centuries.

    The Old Bazaar, filled with artisans, shops, and coffee culture.


    🌉 The Iconic Old Bridge

    Stari Most, the 16th-century Ottoman bridge, is Mostar’s most famous landmark. Destroyed during the Bosnian War and rebuilt in 2004, it now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of reconciliation. Watching locals dive into the emerald river below is an unforgettable experience.

    The legendary Stari Most, uniting two sides of the city.


    🕊️ Layers of History

    Mostar also bears the scars of war, with abandoned buildings and bullet-marked walls serving as silent witnesses of its turbulent past. At the same time, new developments, shopping centers, and street art show a city that looks towards the future while remembering its past.

    Remnants of the war, standing beside vibrant street art.

    The modern side of Mostar, where tradition meets contemporary life.


    ✨ Final Thoughts

    Mostar is more than its Old Bridge. It’s a city of contrasts—war and peace, history and modernity, East and West. From moonlit river walks to the bustling bazaar and the solemn reminders of its past, Mostar leaves every traveler with lasting impressions of resilience and beauty.

  • Sarajevo 🇧🇦: The Heart of Europe and a Meeting of Cultures

    Sarajevo 🇧🇦: The Heart of Europe and a Meeting of Cultures

    Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city of contrasts and resilience. Known as the “Jerusalem of Europe,” it is where East meets West, where Ottoman bazaars stand next to Austro-Hungarian cathedrals, and where the scars of war coexist with the vibrancy of daily life.


    🌆 A City of Diversity

    What makes Sarajevo truly unique is its multicultural identity. In just a short walk, you can see mosques, Catholic cathedrals, Orthodox churches, and synagogues. This coexistence of religions and cultures has shaped Sarajevo’s spirit for centuries.

    The bustling Baščaršija old town, filled with coffee houses, handicrafts, and Ottoman charm.


    🕌 Sacred Heritage

    From the Ottoman-style Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque to the Gothic-style Sacred Heart Cathedral, Sarajevo’s religious landmarks reflect its rich cultural heritage. Walking through these places, you’ll understand why Sarajevo is often called the crossroads of civilizations.

    The ornate details inside Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.

    The Sacred Heart Cathedral illuminated at night.


    🚋 Everyday Life

    Sarajevo is not just about history—it is also about everyday life. The city’s iconic yellow trams, socialist-era apartment blocks, and vibrant café culture tell the story of a city that continues to thrive.

    Residential life in Sarajevo, complete with green courtyards and playgrounds.

    The iconic yellow tram, a symbol of the city’s resilience.


    🕊️ War and Memory

    Sarajevo carries the weight of recent history. The War Childhood Museum and Galerija 11/07/95 are powerful reminders of the Bosnian War and the importance of remembrance. These places are emotional but essential to understanding the soul of the city.

    A museum dedicated to childhood memories during the war.

    A heartbreaking tribute to the Srebrenica massacre.


    🌍 Meeting of Cultures

    One of Sarajevo’s most famous landmarks is the “Meeting of Cultures” line. On one side you’ll see Austro-Hungarian facades, and on the other, Ottoman bazaars. This simple street marker captures the very essence of Sarajevo’s identity.

    The line marking where East meets West in Sarajevo.


    🎶 Nightlife and Spirit

    When night falls, music and lights fill the squares. From concerts to cozy taverns, Sarajevo transforms into a city of joy and hope, proving that life and resilience always prevail.

    Music and light brighten the night sky, a symbol of hope and renewal.


    ✨ Final Thoughts

    Sarajevo is a city that lives in layers: Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian, war and peace, East and West. It is a place where history, culture, and humanity come together. Visiting Sarajevo is not only a journey through a city but also a journey through the resilience of the human spirit.

  • Okrug Gornji, Croatia 🇭🇷: Seaside Charm on the Dalmatian Coast 🌊

    Okrug Gornji, Croatia 🇭🇷: Seaside Charm on the Dalmatian Coast 🌊

    Okrug Gornji is a beautiful coastal town on the western side of the island of Čiovo in Croatia, just across the bridge from the UNESCO World Heritage city of Trogir. With its long pebble beaches, vibrant cafés, centuries-old stone streets, and incredible sunsets, Okrug Gornji offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean relaxation and cultural discovery.


    📍 About Okrug Gornji

    The name Okrug means “circle,” describing the natural shape of the bay that embraces the town. Together with Okrug Donji, it forms the municipality of Okrug, home to around 4,000 permanent residents. In summer, the population grows dramatically as visitors from all over Europe arrive to enjoy the Adriatic sunshine.

    Its location is unbeatable: only 3 km from Trogir, 30 km from Split, and less than 10 km from Split Airport. This makes Okrug Gornji an excellent base for travelers who want to combine island life with easy access to Croatia’s mainland treasures.

    Welcome sign greeting visitors to Okrug Gornji.
    Tourist board showing local attractions and services in Okrug.

    🏖️ Beaches & Adriatic Beauty

    Okrug Gornji is most famous for Copacabana Beach, a 2-kilometer stretch of white pebbles lined with beach bars, restaurants, and water activities. Here you can rent jet skis, try parasailing, or simply enjoy a cocktail under the Mediterranean sun. Smaller bays and coves along the coastline provide peaceful spots for swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters.

    Clear waters of the Adriatic — perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
    Golden sunsets by the Adriatic Sea, a highlight of every evening in Okrug Gornji.

    🏛️ History & Old Streets

    The island of Čiovo has been inhabited since Roman times, Trogir and Okrug Gornji still preserve much of its old-world charm. Its stone houses, arched alleys, and tiny courtyards tell stories of centuries past. Many of these homes now host restaurants, wine bars, and small shops where visitors can taste the authentic Dalmatian lifestyle.

    Arched stone passageways in the old streets.
    Cozy street cafés offering seafood, Mediterranean flavors, and homemade drinks.

    ⛪ Cultural & Religious Heritage

    Several small chapels and churches are scattered throughout Okrug Gornji. These modest yet beautiful stone churches reflect the deep spiritual traditions of Dalmatia. They are often surrounded by cemeteries, where generations of families are buried, preserving local heritage and community ties.

    Historic stone church — a quiet reminder of Okrug’s centuries-old traditions.

    🌄 Scenic Views & Nature

    From the hills above Okrug Gornji, you can admire breathtaking views of Trogir, the island landscape, and the Dinaric mountains in the background. The area is also rich in olive groves, vineyards, and Mediterranean vegetation, making it perfect for short hikes, cycling, or photography.

    Panoramic view over Okrug Gornji, with Trogir and the mountains in the distance.

    🍴 Local Food & Lifestyle

    Food in Okrug Gornji is all about freshness and simplicity. Local restaurants serve grilled fish, octopus salad, black risotto, and Dalmatian prosciutto paired with regional wines. Don’t miss homemade olive oil and traditional desserts like rožata. Evenings are best spent enjoying seafood at a family-run konoba (tavern) while the sun sets over the Adriatic.


    🌙 Day & Night Atmosphere

    During the day, Okrug is lively and full of beach activities. At night, the mood changes — the moonlight reflects on the Adriatic, cicadas sing, and the air is filled with the scent of pine trees and sea breeze. It’s a perfect place for both relaxation and romance.

    Peaceful Adriatic night under the moonlight.
    A charming alley leading down to the sea — everyday life in Okrug Gornji.

    🌞 Best Time to Visit

    The best time to visit Okrug Gornji is between May and September. July and August are the busiest months, perfect for those who love lively beaches and summer nightlife. For a quieter experience, come in May–June or September when the weather is warm, the sea is pleasant for swimming, and the crowds are fewer.


    🗓️ Suggested Itinerary

    • Day 1: Explore Okrug Gornji’s old stone streets, enjoy a seafood lunch at a konoba, and relax on Copacabana Beach. End the day with a sunset walk along the Adriatic coast.
    • Day 2: Take a boat trip from Okrug to nearby islands like Drvenik Veli or the famous Blue Lagoon. Return for a romantic dinner by the sea.
    • Day 3: Cross the bridge to Trogir for a full day exploring its UNESCO-listed old town, medieval fortresses, and vibrant markets.
    • Optional: Make a day trip to Split to see Diocletian’s Palace or head inland to explore waterfalls at Krka National Park.

    ℹ️ Practical Information

    • 🚍 Getting There: Okrug Gornji is connected to Trogir by a small bridge. Split Airport (7 km away) offers easy access by taxi, shuttle, or local bus. During summer, water taxis also connect Okrug to Trogir and Split.
    • 🏠 Accommodation: Choices range from family-run guesthouses and private apartments to small boutique hotels by the beach. Many offer sea-view balconies and direct access to the coast.
    • 💰 Prices (May 2025):
      • ☕ Coffee: €3-5
      • 🍽️ Local seafood meal: €12–25
      • 🏠 Guesthouse room per night: €40–80
      • 🏖️ Beach sunbed rental: €5–8 per day
    • 🚤 Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, boat excursions, hiking, and exploring nearby towns.

    ✨ Why Visit Okrug Gornji?

    • 🏖️ Long pebble beaches and crystal-clear Adriatic waters
    • 🏛️ Historic streets and authentic Dalmatian stone houses
    • 🍷 Delicious Mediterranean food and local wines
    • 🚶 Scenic views, hiking trails, and island charm
    • ⛪ Cultural and religious heritage
    • 📍 Easy access to Trogir, Split, and nearby islands

    Okrug Gornji is more than just a seaside resort — it’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty meet. Whether you come for the beaches, the food, or the authentic Dalmatian atmosphere, you’ll find this coastal gem a destination worth remembering.

  • Split, Croatia 🇭🇷: The Jewel of the Adriatic 🏛️🚤

    Split, Croatia 🇭🇷: The Jewel of the Adriatic 🏛️🚤

    Croatia’s second-largest city, Split, lies on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. A vibrant blend of Roman heritage, medieval streets, and the sparkling Adriatic harbor, Split offers both a step back in time and a refreshing seaside escape. This article walks you through the city with photos capturing its essence — from ancient palaces to lively squares and coastal life.


    🚤 Life at the Harbor

    Your journey in Split often begins by the harbor. Boats, ferries, and fishing vessels bob gently in the water, with the Croatian flag waving proudly in the breeze. The waterfront promenade, Riva, is alive with cafés, palm trees, and the hum of conversations — the perfect place to feel the pulse of the city.


    🏰 Echoes of History & Architecture

    Split’s old town is a living museum, but just 30 minutes away lies Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage town often paired with a visit to Split. Romanesque, Gothic, and Venetian styles mix beautifully in its squares and churches. Walking here feels like stepping into a storybook where each building whispers centuries of tales.


    🏘️ The Allure of Stone-Paved Alleys

    Back in Split’s old town, narrow cobblestone lanes twist between stone walls, small boutiques, and family-run restaurants. Red rooftops glow under the sun, and flags hang proudly across the alleys. It’s here, in these side streets, that the heartbeat of Split is strongest — slow, warm, and filled with Mediterranean soul.


    ⚽ Pride of the City: Hajduk Split

    Football isn’t just a sport in Split — it’s a way of life. The local club Hajduk Split, founded in 1911, is one of Croatia’s most beloved teams. Its emblem can be seen painted on walls and worn proudly by fans everywhere, symbolizing not just sport, but community and resilience.


    🌿 Squares & Everyday Life

    Split’s squares are gathering spots where history meets modern life. Statues of poets and scholars stand proudly in stone courtyards, while cafés and shaded benches invite you to slow down. Life here unfolds at its own pace — unhurried, welcoming, and deeply rooted in community.


    🏛️ Diocletian’s Palace: A Living Legacy

    The crown jewel of Split is Diocletian’s Palace, built in the 4th century by Roman emperor Diocletian. Unlike a museum, this palace is still alive — with homes, cafés, and shops tucked into its massive stone walls. Walking through its arches feels like slipping through time, where Rome still breathes alongside modern life.


    🌅 Closing Thoughts

    Split is not just a destination, but an experience. By day, wander its stone alleys and ancient palaces. By evening, breathe in the sea air as the sun sets behind the harbor. In Split, history and modern life blend seamlessly — a timeless Adriatic rhythm that stays with you long after you leave.

  • Rimini, Italy 🌊🇮🇹: A Gateway to the Adriatic Coast and San Marino

    Rimini, Italy 🌊🇮🇹: A Gateway to the Adriatic Coast and San Marino

    Rimini, located in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is more than just a seaside resort town. Famous for its 15 km of golden beaches, lively nightlife, and historic charm, Rimini is also the main gateway for travelers heading to the world’s oldest republic — San Marino.


    🚉 Arrival in Rimini

    Your journey begins at Rimini Railway Station. The elegant white façade with its clock tower welcomes visitors arriving by train.

    Rimini Railway Station. The historic entrance of Stazione di Rimini, with its Italian flag waving proudly.

    If you’re planning a day trip to San Marino, simply stop by a Tabaccheria ticket shop near the station.

    From there, catch the Rimini–San Marino Shuttle that departs several times daily. The stop is right outside the station.

    Shuttle Stop. The bus that connects Rimini with San Marino, waiting at its stop near the station.

    For those who like to plan ahead, the full timetable is displayed and very easy to follow.


    🎱 Retro Hostel Vibes

    In Rimini, I chose to stay at a youth hostel with quirky retro décor. The green geometric wallpaper, vintage posters, and a pool table created an atmosphere that felt straight out of a 1970s film set.


    🍷 Local Flavors

    No Italian trip is complete without indulging in local cuisine. I enjoyed fresh grilled prawns drizzled with olive oil and paired with red wine — simple, elegant, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.


    🌅 Evening Walk by the Sea

    A short evening stroll from the city center leads you toward Rimini’s seaside promenade. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Fountain of the Four Horses, an elegant landmark surrounded by greenery.

    Nearby stands the legendary Grand Hotel Rimini, made famous by Fellini’s films. Its white façade and gardens add a touch of Belle Époque charm.

    As the sun sets, Rimini’s long beaches turn into a stage of colors. The umbrellas and sunbeds rest quietly while the sky turns shades of orange and purple.

    And when night falls, the Diamond Wheel Ferris wheel becomes the highlight of the coastline, shining in purple and pink lights.


    💡 Final Thoughts

    Rimini is a city that blends beach life, culture, and convenience. Whether you’re here for a summer escape, a cultural stroll, or as a base for exploring San Marino, Rimini offers an unforgettable mix of relaxation and adventure.

  • San Marino 🇸🇲 – Exploring the Oldest Republic in the World

    San Marino 🇸🇲 – Exploring the Oldest Republic in the World

    I visited San Marino in spring (May 2025). Perched on Mount Titano, this tiny republic blends medieval fortresses, sweeping views, and a proud identity built on Libertas.

    History & Identity

    Founded in 301 AD, San Marino is often called the world’s oldest republic. Around the historic center (a UNESCO site), you’ll see the motto Libertas everywhere—carved in stone, waving on flags, and embedded in daily life.

    The coat of arms and the motto Libertas.

    Into the Historic Center

    Stone arches, small cafés, and elegant façades welcome you into the old town. Passing the arches near Cassa di Risparmio feels like stepping through time.

    Archways near Cassa di Risparmio in San Marino historic center

    Fortresses of Mount Titano

    San Marino’s three towers—Guaita, Cesta, and Montale—stand guard over dramatic cliffs and green valleys. Hiking between them is the classic San Marino experience.

    Fortress perched on the cliffs of Mount Titano

    Panoramic countryside view from Mount Titano

    Traditions at Cava dei Balestrieri

    The Cava dei Balestrieri (Crossbowmen’s Quarry) hosts historic pageants and crossbow tournaments—living traditions that keep the republic’s story alive.

    Cava dei Balestrieri, home to crossbow events.

    Basilica di San Marino

    The country’s most important church pairs a neoclassical façade with a serene, columned nave—beautiful outside and in.

    Basilica di San Marino exterior with neoclassical columns

    Interior of Basilica di San Marino with coffered ceiling and altar

    Walking the Cammino del Titano

    Waymarks for the Cammino del Titano lead hikers around Mount Titano, linking nature, history, and lookouts in one route.

    Cammino del Titano trail waymark in San Marino

    Symbols of Liberty

    Monuments and sculptures across town echo San Marino’s independent spirit and its bond with the mountain.

    Statue and relief model of Monte Titano in San Marino

    Views From Above

    End your visit at a viewpoint: the patchwork hills of Emilia-Romagna spread out below, proof that this tiny republic sits on a grand stage.

    Wide countryside panorama seen from San Marino

    Small state, big soul: San Marino combines fortresses, basilicas, living traditions, and unforgettable views—an easy day trip that lingers like a legend.

  • Discovering Spoleto, Italy 🇮🇹: A Spring Journey into Umbria’s Hidden Gem

    Discovering Spoleto, Italy 🇮🇹: A Spring Journey into Umbria’s Hidden Gem

    I arrived in Spoleto in early May, with spring in full bloom and the Umbrian hills glowing green. This hill town blends Roman history, medieval streets and modern Italian life, offering a quieter but richly cultural alternative to Italy’s bigger hubs.

    Springtime Spoleto from above — Umbrian hills and terracotta rooftops.

    First Impressions: Walking into History

    Spoleto’s charm unfolds in its narrow lanes, stone arches and sunlit piazzas. Around every turn, the city reveals layers of time.

    The Roman theatre — a powerful reminder of Spoleto’s classical past.

    Rocca, Ponte delle Torri & Roman Roots

    Spoleto’s skyline is anchored by the Rocca Albornoziana fortress and the dramatic Ponte delle Torri aqueduct bridge, while Roman remains echo the city’s ancient past.

    Ponte delle Torri aqueduct bridge spanning the valley in Spoleto

    The Duomo di Spoleto

    The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is a Romanesque masterpiece whose apse holds frescoes by Filippo Lippi. Inside, soft light and centuries of art create a contemplative calm.

    Inside the Duomo — Renaissance frescoes and luminous quiet.

    Inside the Duomo — Renaissance frescoes and luminous quiet.

    Flavors of Umbria

    Umbrian cuisine is rustic and rooted in the land: truffles, lentils, olive oil and bold local wines. Spoleto’s trattorias still carry handwritten menus and heartfelt hospitality.

    Umbrian dish served at a local trattoria in Spoleto

    Art, Churches & Quiet Corners

    Beyond the Duomo, small chapels and churches hold frescoes and carved stone that reward unhurried exploration.

    Religious art and interior detail inside a church in Spoleto
    Intimate sacred spaces — light, pigment and centuries of devotion.

    Mobilità Alternativa: Easiest Way to Explore a Hill Town

    Spoleto’s Mobilità Alternativa is a brilliant network of escalators, elevators and moving walkways that link lower streets with hilltop landmarks. It saves time (and knees!) while keeping the historic fabric intact. Line 2 connects the Rocca, the Duomo and the Giro della Rocca path.

    Mobilità Alternativa Line 2 signage in Spoleto indicating Rocca and Duomo connections

    Plan Your Visit

    • 🚆 Easy rail access from Rome & Florence (perfect for Interrail itineraries).
    • 🎟 Consider the local museum pass to bundle key sites.
    • 🕰 Best seasons: spring and autumn for mild weather and softer light.
    • 🔗 More Italy ideas: Italy Travel Highlights

    Spoleto rewards the curious: fortress views, Roman echoes, Umbrian flavors and an easy, car-free way to move around. It was one of my favorite stops on my 2025 Interrail route — a city I’d return to in a heartbeat.

  • Interrail 2022 🗺️– 3 Months, 21 Countries, and a Journey That Changed Everything

    Interrail 2022 🗺️– 3 Months, 21 Countries, and a Journey That Changed Everything

    From May to August 2022, I embarked on my first major Interrail adventure — a 3-month train journey through 21 European countries that became the foundation for my travel lifestyle today. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a deep dive into the heart of Europe, its landscapes, cultures, and the unique rhythm of slow travel.

    Whether you’re dreaming of backpacking Europe by train, planning your own Interrail route, or simply curious about the magic of long-term travel, here’s my full review — with stats, highlights, and personal insights to inspire your journey.

    Trip Overview

    May–August 2022 · 21 countries visited
    Trains: 104 · Distance: 22,952 km · Time on trains: 11 days 14 hours 39 minutes

    This route was almost 95% by train, proving that Europe’s rail network is one of the most rewarding and sustainable ways to explore the continent. I used the Interrail Global Pass to weave together iconic capitals, hidden gems, and breathtaking natural landscapes.


    Countries Visited

    Here’s the full list of countries from my Interrail 2022 journey, in the order they appeared on my passport stamps and travel memories:

    1. 🇵🇹 Portugal
    2. 🇪🇸 Spain
    3. 🇫🇷 France
    4. 🇳🇱 Netherlands
    5. 🇩🇪 Germany
    6. 🇦🇹 Austria
    7. 🇮🇹 Italy
    8. 🇬🇷 Greece
    9. 🇹🇷 Turkey
    10. 🇷🇴 Romania
    11. 🇧🇬 Bulgaria
    12. 🇷🇸 Serbia
    13. 🇭🇺 Hungary
    14. 🇨🇿 Czech Republic
    15. 🇵🇱 Poland
    16. 🇨🇭 Switzerland
    17. 🇱🇺 Luxembourg
    18. 🇩🇰 Denmark
    19. 🇸🇪 Sweden
    20. 🇳🇴 Norway
    21. 🇫🇮 Finland

    Tip: If you’re planning a similar route, mixing major hubs like Paris and Rome with smaller cities such as Brno and Luxembourg will give you a richer, more balanced travel experience.


    Trip Highlights

    • 🏔 Scenic train rides across the Swiss Alps and Norwegian fjords
    • 🏞 Discovering the Lofoten Islands in Norway — a photographer’s dream
    • 🌌 Crossing the Arctic Circle in Sweden and experiencing the midnight sun
    • 🏛 Exploring ancient history in Athens, Greece, and Istanbul, Türkiye
    • 🌇 Sunset views over Ankara, Türkiye
    • 🌊 Coastal sunsets in Pisa, Italy
    • 🏰 Medieval old towns in Brno, Budapest, and Luxembourg City
    • 🍷 Regional wine & spirits tastings in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and the Balkans
    • 🎶 Immersing in Balkan culture in Belgrade, Sofia, and Bucharest
    • 🌉 Iconic cityscapes of Paris, Berlin, Rome, and Stockholm

    Why This Journey Was Special

    Interrail 2022 was my first long-distance, multi-country train journey — and it completely transformed my travel philosophy. At the time, I was studying philosophy and practicing the Socratic method as a way to engage more deeply with the world. My goal was to learn how to talk to strangers when traveling, ask thoughtful questions, and discover stories I could never find in guidebooks.

    This journey became my personal classroom on wheels. I learned how to balance fast-paced exploration with the art of slow travel, how to stay flexible with plans, and how to connect with local culture beyond the typical tourist experience. From brief chats in train stations to hours-long conversations on night trains, I became more confident in approaching strangers — and far less shy than when I started.

    It wasn’t just about ticking countries off a list; it was about living the journey. From quiet moments watching landscapes blur past the window to spontaneous detours into cities I’d never heard of, every train ride carried a sense of possibility.

    If you’re planning your own Interrail or Eurail trip, my biggest advice is to leave space for the unexpected. Some of my most memorable travel moments happened in places that weren’t on my original itinerary. Whether you’re seeking scenic train rides, cultural immersion, or meaningful human connection, Interrail offers the perfect blend of adventure and self-discovery.

    📍 Read more Interrail stories, route guides, and travel reflections at Travel with Spirits. Follow my journeys on Instagram @travelwithspirits.

  • 🌍Interrail 2025: Exploring 24 Countries Across Europe in 3 Months 🚆

    🌍Interrail 2025: Exploring 24 Countries Across Europe in 3 Months 🚆

    Between May and July 2025, I embarked on my most ambitious journey yet — a 3-month Interrail trip covering 24 countries. From sipping wine in the vineyards of Spain to crossing the Arctic Circle under the midnight sun, each train ride was a chapter of discovery. Here’s the full route, highlights, and what made this adventure unforgettable.

    May–July 2025 · Visited 24 countries
    (Interrail app shows 21 because two were reached by ferry and Austria was exited by bus)
    Trains: 121 · Distance: 20,432 km · Time on trains: 11d 20h 45m

    Countries Visited (24)

    1. 🇳🇱 Netherlands
    2. 🇩🇪 Germany
    3. 🇮🇹 Italy
    4. 🇲🇪 Montenegro
    5. 🇷🇸 Serbia
    6. 🇬🇷 Greece
    7. 🇧🇬 Bulgaria
    8. 🇷🇴 Romania
    9. 🇭🇺 Hungary
    10. 🇨🇿 Czech Republic
    11. 🇨🇭 Switzerland
    12. 🇸🇮 Slovenia
    13. 🇪🇸 Spain
    14. 🇫🇷 France
    15. 🇵🇱 Poland
    16. 🇱🇹 Lithuania
    17. 🇱🇻 Latvia
    18. 🇪🇪 Estonia
    19. 🇫🇮 Finland
    20. 🇩🇰 Denmark
    21. 🇳🇴 Norway
    22. 🇭🇷 Croatia ferry
    23. 🇸🇪 Sweden ferry
    24. 🇦🇹 Austria exited by bus

    Notes: Croatia and Sweden were reached by ferry, hence not counted by the Interrail app.
    Austria was exited via bus/other transport, so no rail record.

    Trip Highlights

    • 🏔 Scenic rides across the Swiss Alps
    • ❄️ Crossing the Arctic Circle in Finland
    • 🏰 Visiting Europe’s charming microstates and small countries
    • ❄️ Nordic arc: Tallinn → Helsinki → Rovaniemi → Bergen
    • 🎶 Exploring Balkan culture in Montenegro & Serbia
    • 🍷 Regional wines & spirits tastings